Fortnite Players Begin Receiving Refunds for Unwanted Purchases: How to Claim Yours
New York (AP) — Fortnite players who were “tricked” into making unintended purchases by Epic Games, the maker of the popular video game, are starting to receive refund payments, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Why Are Refunds Being Issued?
In 2022, Epic Games agreed to a $520 million settlement to address allegations of deceptive practices and violations of children’s privacy laws. The FTC claimed that Epic used misleading online design tactics, often referred to as “dark patterns,” which led players—especially children—to make unintended purchases with a single button press.
Examples cited by the FTC include:
- Players being charged while trying to wake the game from sleep mode.
- Accidental purchases made by pressing nearby buttons while previewing items.
Additionally, some users who disputed charges faced account bans, preventing them from accessing content they had already paid for.
Breakdown of the Settlement
- $275 million fine: For collecting personal information from players under the age of 13 without parental consent.
- $245 million fund: Dedicated to refunding customers affected by unwanted charges.
First Round of Refunds Issued
The FTC announced that over 629,000 payments have been sent to eligible customers.
- Payment Methods:
- About half of the refunds are being sent via PayPal, which must be redeemed within 30 days.
- The remainder are issued as checks, to be cashed within 90 days.
- Average Refund Amount: Approximately $114.
- Total Distributed So Far: Over $72 million, with $173 million still available for future claims.
Who Is Eligible for a Refund?
Refunds are available to:
- Fortnite players who were charged in-game currency for unwanted items or had their accounts locked after disputing wrongful charges.
- Applicable for purchases made between January 2017 and September 2022.
- Parents whose children made unauthorized charges on their credit cards between January 2018 and November 2018.
How to Apply for a Refund
Impacted consumers can still submit a refund claim through the FTC’s website. The deadline to apply is January 10, 2025.
Epic Games’ Response
At the time of the settlement in December 2022, Epic Games stated its commitment to consumer protection, noting that it had already implemented changes to enhance player experiences and comply with regulations. Epic expressed hope that its efforts would serve as a guide for others in the gaming industry.
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For more information on refunds and to check your eligibility, visit the FTC’s website.
